Page 52 - Man Ki Baat Nov 2024 (English)
P. 52
Oral History Projects in India
Preserving Memories, Voices, and Identities
Friends, a similar ‘Oral
Oral history refers to the
History Project’ is being
practice of collecting, recording,
carried out in India as well.
Under this project, history and preserving personal
enthusiasts are collating the narratives, memories, and
experiences of the victims
experiences of individuals
during the period of partition of
the country. Now, there are very through interviews. Unlike written
few people left in the country historical accounts that often
who have witnessed the horrors focus on political, military, and
of Partition. In such a situation,
economic aspects of an event,
this effort has become even
more significant. oral histories give voice to those
whose personal stories and
-Prime Minister Narendra Modi
experiences might otherwise be
(in 'Mann ki Baat' address)
overlooked or marginalised.
While written records are
essential for historical research,
oral history allows for a more
holistic view of the past by
emphasising personal stories,
emotions, and experiences that
may not be captured in official
documents or archives. These
personal accounts often offer
a more intimate and nuanced
perspective of history. Oral
histories allow people from
different generations to share
their memories, connecting
the past with the present and
creating a deeper sense of
collective memory.
Over the years, India has
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